The ongoing pace of urbanization poses a substantial obstacle to the concurrent progress of both financial and ecological development. Recognizing this challenge, governments globally are formulating cutting-edge strategies for urban renewal to ensure the long-term sustainability of cities. In this context, we employ a difference-in-differences model to scrutinize the intricate relationship between smart cities and the growth of renewable energy, utilizing the Chinese smart city pilot program as a pertinent experiment. This analytical approach provides novel insights into the underlying reasons behind this correlation. The research yields three noteworthy findings. Firstly, it underscores the indispensable role of pilot initiatives in smart cities for advancing the cause of renewable energy. Secondly, the study reveals a positive and beneficial interplay between creativity, economic inclusion, and the utilization of technological innovation in experimental urban programs, suggesting a potential multiplier effect. Thirdly, the local context significantly influences the impact of smart city pilots, with the dissemination of renewable energy being particularly effective in resource-rich, metropolitan, and coastal cities. Observable impacts of current smart city experiment on energy security and sustainable development are already apparent. The research findings contribute fresh perspectives to the complex challenges of sustainable energy production and urban planning, especially in developing countries like China.